In May 1994, I proudly received my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Lander University in my hometown of Greenwood, SC. My academic focus encompassed a rich array of disciplines, including Commercial Art, Graphic Design, Advertising/Marketing, and a minor in Art History. It was during my time at university that I discovered my passion for visual storytelling and design, which would shape the trajectory of my career in the years to come.

One pivotal moment during my academic journey was when my professors recognized my aptitude for technology and design, appointing me as the overseer of the Mac Computer Lab. This role not only deepened my appreciation for Apple products and computers but also sparked a lifelong fascination with the intersection of art and technology. In an era before the widespread adoption of digital design tools, I vividly remember the meticulous process of printing out artwork, painstakingly cutting it with xactos, and meticulously pasting it up—a far cry from the streamlined workflows of today's digital era.

Throughout my academic tenure, I seized every opportunity to gain practical experience through internships. At a local print shop, I was thrust into the fast-paced world of design production, where I learned valuable lessons in creativity and efficiency. Meanwhile, my stint at the school's magazine proved to be a trial by fire, as I navigated the intricacies of magazine layout and design under tight deadlines and budget constraints. These formative experiences not only honed my technical skills but also instilled in me a resilient "can-do" attitude that continues to define my approach to work.

Upon graduation, I embarked on the daunting task of finding employment—a process vastly different from today's digital job market. Armed with a stack of printed resumes, I scoured newspaper listings and mailed applications to potential employers. After six weeks of persistence, I landed my first job at a textile plant—a role that would provide invaluable insights into the world of manufacturing and design.

At the textile plant, I was tasked with designing a diverse range of products, from throw rugs to commemorative blankets, using a combination of traditional photography techniques and digital editing tools. This hands-on experience not only expanded my printing knowledge but also deepened my understanding of the intricate relationship between design and production.

Subsequently, I transitioned to roles at a local business magazine and a prominent newspaper, where I honed my skills as a Creative Designer. At the newspaper, I played a pivotal role in spearheading the transition from manual paste-up to digital pagination, witnessing firsthand the transformative impact of technology on the design industry.

As technology continued to evolve, I embraced new challenges and opportunities for growth, expanding my expertise in digital design and multimedia production. Through continuous learning and adaptation, I became proficient in a wide range of software tools, from Photoshop to Flash, and played a key role in training and mentoring others in the use of these technologies.

In 2005, fueled by a desire for creative autonomy, I took the leap of faith and founded my own design firm, Caffeine Inspired Design. Over the past two decades, I have had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse clientele, from local businesses to national publications, on a wide range of projects spanning branding campaigns, advertising, and multimedia production.

As I reflect on my journey thus far, I am humbled by the milestones I have achieved and the lessons I have learned along the way. With nearly 20 years of experience under my belt, I am confident in my ability to tackle any design challenge that comes my way. And as always, my mantra remains unchanged: "You name it, I can do it."